Numerous migrants are removed from the city campsite by Dublin police.

Dublin police have evicted hundreds of migrants from a makeshift campground in the center of the city in a major operation. The camp had grown divisive since over 200 asylum seekers had been living there for months while their applications for international protection were being processed. It was located outside of a government office.

The migrants were moved to another tent camp in south-west County Dublin, around ten miles away from their previous location, according to reports in the local media. Concerns about the health and safety problems at the Mount Street location, which had gotten worse over time with reports of filth and insufficient sanitary facilities, were what spurred the relocation.

Leo Varadkar, the prime minister of Ireland, addressed the matter and stated that the move was required for reasons of health and safety. He pointed out that better amenities, such as showers, were available at the new site in Crooksling than at the old one.

Some, like the Irish Refugee Council, have applauded the move, but others have denounced it as little more than a simple transfer that ignores deeper problems. Social Democrat Jennifer Whitmore expressed doubt and raised questions about how well the initiative will work to give the migrants substantive answers.

All applicants for international protection at the Mount Street camp were provided alternate housing, according to a statement released by the Department of Integration. Those who accepted the offer received tented housing at the Crooksling location in addition to basic necessities including food, toiletries, and lavatories.

The episode highlights the difficulties associated with migration in Ireland, where anti-immigration attitudes are growing. The arson assaults on houses designated for sheltering asylum seekers have alarmed police, making the problem more difficult to solve.

The new move follows a fire last month that highlighted the need for long-term solutions to the ongoing immigration dilemma. The fire destroyed a former nursing home in Crooksling that was meant to serve as a place of residence for migrants.